Habit: long lived, coniferous evergreen tree with a mostly conical crown and thin, scaly, orange brown to dark brown bark. Usually grows upright and straight, but can be found growing in a twisted, shrubby form on exposed bluffs and higher elevations. The needlelike leaves are 1-2 in (3-5 cm) long and in fascicles of two. Seed cones are symmetrical occurring in clusters and falling soon after shedding its seeds.
Ecology: found on rocky slopes, and wet meadows in montane to subalpine forests at elevations of 1300-11,500 ft (400-3500 m).
Growing Conditions: full sun, moist, well-drained, rocky soil. Prefers cold, wet winters and dry warm summers.
Mammals and several bird species use Sierra lodgepole pine forests for food, cover, or habitat.
